Books That'll Help You Hone Your Writing Craft

Looking to improve your writing chops? Here are 10 books that will give you fresh insights and help you hone your fiction-writing craft.

1. On Writing by Stephen King. If you read just ONE book on how to write fiction, this should probably be it. Full of wisdom and practical advice, it's as close to a must-read as exists out there, when it comes to writing advice.

2. On Writing Well by William Zinsser: A classic guide to crafting clear and inviting prose, this book shows you how to write with clarity and conviction. It covers the basics of good writing and gives useful advice on topics such as writing for different audiences, using language effectively, and avoiding common errors.

3. Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott: Not only an inspirational look at one writer's journey but also a practical guide on all aspects of the craft, from overcoming creative blocks to self-editing your work. With insights into what makes great stories compelling, it’s perfect for writers of any genre.

4. Writing Down The Bones by Natalie Goldberg: Written like a series of conversations between writer and reader, this book encourages writers to take risks and be creative. It covers topics like finding your voice, developing good daily habits, and understanding the joy of writing for its own sake.

5. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield: A must-read for anyone wanting to break through their creative blocks and make art despite fear and resistance. This short read is packed with practical advice on turning pro, conquering procrastination, and taking ownership of your work.

6. Writing the Breakout Novel by Donald Maass: A comprehensive guide on how to take stories to the next level by deepening characterization, increasing tension, heightening conflict, and more. If you’re looking to master the craft of writing, this book is a good place to start (along with Stephen King's On Writing, of course!).

7. The Creative Habit by Twyla Tharp: Not strictly about writing, This New York Times bestseller combines creative advice with insights from a master artist, to teach readers how to make creativity a daily practice and find inspiration in unexpected places. With practical exercises that'll get you thinking!

8. On Writing Science Fiction by Fritz Leiber: A must-have for any science fiction author, this book explores the nuances of writing in that particular genre and provides useful tips on creating believable worlds, memorable characters, and captivating plots.

9. How Not To Write a Novel by Sandra Newman and Howard Mittelmark: A humorous and helpful guide on what not to do when writing a novel. It’s full of entertaining anecdotes as well as a wealth of advice on how to avoid common mistakes and write a compelling story.

10. The Art of Fiction by John Gardner: This literary classic offers practical guidance on all aspects of writing fiction, from plot structure to characterization, setting, dialogue, and more. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to understand the building blocks of great stories.

No matter your experience level or which genre you write in, these ten books are great reading for any author looking to improve their craft and create compelling stories. So pick up one or some of these books and get reading!